In Nature

With such a diverse natural landscape, the Isle of Man is the ideal place to take things back to basics and enjoy the calming influence of Mother Nature. From rolling hills to idyllic countryside, our scenic highlights are truly unforgettable.

Existing alongside a plethora of natural habitats and picturesque glens, the Island is the only entire jurisdiction in the world to be awarded status as a UNESCO Biosphere - recognising it as a special place to live, work and visit.

With discovery to be had at every turn, you don’t have to travel far to uncover picturesque places in the Isle of Man. But to get you started, we’ve gathered a list of 10 of our favourite places we feel are definitely worth a visit, based on their extraordinary natural beauty.

Cronk Ny Arrey Laa

Photograph credit: Paul Marriot Photography

Featuring on the Port Erin to Niarbyl section of the Raad Ny Foillan coastal footpath, Cronk Ny Arrey Laa is amongst the most spectacular areas to be seen anywhere in the British Isles.

Views are ever-changing and equally as breath-taking all year round but are particularly special in the mid to late summer when the surrounding heather and gorse are in full bloom.

The Sound and Calf of Man

Photography credit: Susie Mackenzie-Fidlin

At the Island’s very southern tip, The Sound and Calf are Man are abundant with wildlife and natural wonders, and a hotspot for sunbathing seals! If you’re lucky enough, you may even see some dolphins and basking sharks who are also known to frequent the area.

Point of Ayre

Photography credit: Netty's Photography

At the opposite end of the Isle of Man you’ll find the Point of Ayre. When you stand here, you're closer to Scotland than you are to Douglas.

Discover the active 19th Century lighthouse, the oldest one on the Island. With long, wide sandy beaches and endless views looking out to the horizon, it's the perfect place for a Sunday stroll or a romantic picnic.

Glen Maye

Photography credit: Jonny Andrews

You won’t be left disappointed with a trip to Glen Maye. Its waterfall, rated as one of the world’s best by The Guardian, along with its spectacular bridged gorge dominate this glen, which is located three miles south of Peel.

Covering eleven and a half acres, its beautiful sheltered, fern-filled woodland includes the Wheel case of the 'Mona Erin', another of the many water wheels which once provided power for the Manx lead mines.

Snaefell

Photography credit: Nick Shimmin

The highest mountain on the Isle of Man, Snaefell is a popular walking spot with walkers walking up to the summit either from Laxey or the Bungalow Tram Station.

On a clear day six kingdoms can be seen from the top of Snaefell: Isle of Man, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Heaven (with Scotland being the closest).

Niarbyl Bay

Photography credit: Norman Kneen

Discover the peaceful bay of Niarbyl with its rolling hills, thatched cottages and dramatic coastal paths which lead you to White Beach. Head here in the evening to bask under a blanket of stars beneath the clear, dark skies after glazing over extraordinary sunsets that glisten over the clear coastal waters.

It’s also an important geological site, showing evidence of the fusion of continents 140 million years ago.

Tynwald Arboretum

Photography credit: Jason Kinrade

Set in the picturesque countryside, the 25 acres park is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic on a hot summer’s day or to get some fresh air and feed the ducks.

If you’re feeling energetic, at the top of the main hill is a specially constructed shelter commanding a panoramic view extending westwards to the sea and south over St John's Church and village to the tree clad Slieu Whallian mountain of "witches in rolling barrels" fame.

Spanish Head

Photography credit: Phil Sproson Photography

Located on the south-west coast of the Island, Spanish Head is the name given to an area which rises steeply from sea level to a height of over 100m. The dramatic, rugged profile of the cliffs in this area make it a magnet for walkers, photographers and rock climbers alike.

It’s also an excellent place for bird-watching, attracting a number of important seabird colonies including Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, Fulmars, Lesser and Greater Black-Backed Gulls, Herring Gulls, Shags, Cormorants and the occasional Puffin.

Garwick Beach

Photography credit: @atoz.journey (Instagram)

Located in the east of the Island, Garwick Beach is one of our favourites! Derived from the Celtic for ‘pleasant bay’, this beach certainly lives up to its name. Complete with clear waters and green trees overhanging the beach, this secluded cove has a distinctly tropical feel and is the perfect place to enjoy some solitude as you admire the postcard perfect views. 

Bradda Head

Photography credit: Phil Sproson Photography

Known as the 'sweet spot' of the South, Bradda Head never fails to disappoint. Climb to the top of Milner's Tower and discover the tranquil beauty of Port Erin Bay and the Calf of Man. If you're feeling adventurous, you can walk along the coastline to discover the secluded Fleshwick Bay.

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